Book excerpt: The last thing she needs is a standoffish alien complicating her life… Before her sister Hazel mated an Ezak-X, Shea had never given the aliens much thought. But after a nasty divorce left her and her daughter Lila in need of a major change, they move to Space City. Now, it’s impossible not to notice the Ezak-X – well, one in particular. Her tall, muscular neighbor takes the “strong and silent type” to the extreme. In fact, he’s never said a word to her. But when car trouble threatens Shea and Lila’s Christmas trip to visit family, the beastly, quiet neighbor steps in to help. He makes Shea yearn for something more. But Lila will always be her priority. And after her cheating ex, Shea’s doubtful she can trust a man again – least of all a sexy Ezak-X who seems to have no interest in her. So why can’t she get him out of her head? The female next door drives him crazy… Garr doesn't understand the point in talking, let alone being social. Grunts and a word here and there have suited him just fine. Except when it comes to entering the military. The Alliance psychologist tells him he's too damaged, but Garr just wants to be useful. Getting a job at a security company is a step in the right direction. But when a new female moves into his apartment complex, his organized life is thrown off balance. Her scent is intoxicating. Distracting. She makes him want things he's never even considered before. Garr knows that if he wants to keep his life on track, he has to stay far, far away from her. But when the female and her child need help making it to their family for the holidays, he can’t just turn his back on them. All he has to do is survive this trip without letting her into his head – or his heart. But even for a master of silence and solitude, that’s easier said than done… Gift of the Beast is a steamy holiday romance set in the Mate of the Beast universe. Complete with a HEA and no cliffhangers.